Replying to Moving to southern california

kind of an odd topic, but i need some help. I'm really going to surf, not ski, but any insights on the Huntington area, like maybe where to get a decent apartment, id really appreciate it. I'm a college student from Boston looking to move to socal for about three months. I was planning on going mid may and staying through august or so, and i was wondering if anyone had some insights on places i should look into more specifically. My ideal place is somewhere where i can walk or skate to the beach, to work, and to grocery shop. I'm gonna be going with no car, and just myself. I have surf shop experience, so I'd love to work for a shop or for a company. Does anyone know how difficult it is to get a job in that industry? Im not really coming out to make a lot of money, im talking like 10 dollars an hour id be fully stoked with. It sounds kind of lame, but I just need a break from my routine here, and want to sort of "find" myself. I'm really going out of my comfort zone, and going with zero contacts out west, I sort of just want to make it on my own, and meet a decent group of friends that I can surf with and grab a beer or two with too. Everyone thinks im crazy for doing it, but this is really the last opportunity I have to be a little selfish and irresponsible. Please dont give me advice saying dont go, etc. because im gonna go for sure. I'm pretty open to where i go, i just want it to be a safe area, and with a decent sized younger generation so i can meet a couple cool people. I was thinking around Huntington. I just need to find a job and an apartment. Thanks in advance to the people that offer up any insight, i really really appreciate it.